Marion council split over squad car

Marion city council voted three to one to buy a 2020 Ford Interceptor for the police department.

Councilman Ruth Herbel voiced her objections two weeks ago, contending the Ford had a salvage title after being wrecked and would not have a factory warranty.

Police chief Clinton Jeffrey showed council members a copy of the Ford’s title Monday, and said it is not a salvage title.

Herbel also asked if needed repairs were completed on the vehicle. Repairs to the Ford are completed and plans are to pick up the Ford Thursday.

Councilmen Chris Costello, Susan Gray, and David Mayfield voted to approve a lease purchase of $8,700 for the Ford and Herbel voted against. Councilman Jerry Kline was absent.

In other business Monday, council members approved an agreement with Atmos Energy to supply natural gas to city residents. In return 3% of what residents pay will be returned to the city and go into the general fund.

Council members approved Blue Cross Blue Shield as employee health insurance providers with an 11.4% rate increase.

Bill Lundy was appointed to a three-year term on the board of zoning appeals; and Darvin Markley and Josh Clevenger were appointed to three-year terms on the planning commission.